A record year for electrics

Manufacturer data and newly available industry sales data show EVs and plug-in hybrids accounting for about 20% of all vehicles sold in Washington last year-- the highest percentage to date! That's more than double the national sales average of 9.5%.

In 2023 Washington had the second-highest rate of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicle sales in the nation, right behind California. Which state came in at number three? Oregon. The West Coast is way ahead of the rest of the nation when it comes to plugging into zero-emission transportation.

Since nearly 40% of Washington's greenhouse gas emissions come from the transportation sector, these stats are welcome news. And we're adding to the momentum with a policy that requires increasing sales of zero-emissions vehicles. 

There have been recent news stories about a supposed slump in the transition to zero-emission transportation—that growth in electric vehicle (EV) sales has leveled off and manufacturers are scaling back plans for new models.  

Here’s what you didn’t hear: None of that appears to apply to the West Coast, and it certainly doesn’t match what we’re seeing in Washington. 

2023 was a record year for sales of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicles in Washington! Manufacturer data and newly available industry sales data show EVs and plug-ins accounting for about 20% of all vehicles sold in Washington last year. 

That's more than double the national sales average of 9.5%. With transportation being Washington's biggest source of greenhouse gas emissions, this is welcome news.  

Washington had the second-highest rate of electric and plug-in hybrid vehicle sales in the nation, right behind California. Which state came in at number three behind California and Washington? Oregon. The West Coast is way ahead of the rest of the nation when it comes to plugging into zero-emission transportation.